In the News

Florida program model for placing foster kids

08/15/2014

The Florida Department of Children and Families’ electronic system used for placing foster children across state lines is being used as the model in a national pilot project.

Florida has used the system since 2008. Officials say it significantly decreases the amount of time it takes to place a Florida foster child into a home with relatives or adoptive parents in another state. Florida processes approximately 3,000 requests for children to move in and out of state each year.

The database also saves nearly $100,000 annually in in postage and paper.

The American Public Human Services Association is modeling a national online system after Florida’s program. Six states will participate in the pilot program over the next several months. It will conclude in February 2015.